36 Birthday Party Food Ideas Indian

Last Updated on February 29, 2024 by Amanda P. Brown

Indian menu for birthday party will be a great and versatile idea. Indian cuisine features traditional menus with snacks, starters, main dishes, desserts, and drinks. Individually for vegans, Indian cuisine is like a treasure. 

This article will offer 36 Birthday Party Food Ideas Indian. Here, you will get some amazing courses like Nawabi Chicken with Butter Naan, Tawa Pulao, etc. You can enjoy a vegetarian menu like Methi Chole, Masala Bhatura, and Paneer Makhani. Let’s explore them with a brief description.

36 Birthday Party Food Ideas Indian

Birthday party menu in India are versatile. They include starters, main courses, snacks, desserts, and drinks. For vegetarian guests, there is also an individual menu. Some items are prepared according to kids’ choices. 

All these considerations and versatility make a satisfying party meal. Every party is full of Indian taste, texture, and aroma. 

However, let’s check the options below to complete an enriching menu.

  1. Nawabi Chicken with Butter Naan
  2. Rajma chawal
  3. Roti with paneer butter masala
  4. Stuffed kulcha
  5. Frankie
  6. Chicken noodles
  7. Fried rice
  8. Tawa pulao
  9. Ghee rice with kurma
  10. Plain rice with rasam and dal
  11. Kathi roll
  12. Methi chole
  13. Paneer Pasanda
  14. Masala Bhatura
  15. Sambar sadam
  16. Paneer Makhani
  17. Dhokla
  18. Khada pav bhaji
  19. Rava Dosa with Coconut Chutney 
  20. Sindhi dal pakwan
  21. Green peas and paneer mini parathas
  22. Masala papad
  23. Bread pakora
  24. Fried momo
  25. Gobi Manchurian
  26. Sev Puri
  27. Badam Kheer
  28. Orange Sandesh
  29. Rose barfi
  30. Anjeer Halwa
  31. Jalebi
  32. Flavored Milkshakes
  33. Rose milk
  34. Strawberry Banana Smoothie
  35. Fruit juice
  36. Hot chocolate
Birthday Party Food Ideas Indian
Birthday Party Food Ideas Indian

11 Main Menu for Birthday Party

Below are 11 main menu for birthday party Indian ideas you can add to your next birthday gathering menu. Your guests will surely enjoy them. 

1. Nawabi Chicken with Butter Naan

Nawabi Chicken with Butter Naan
Nawabi Chicken with Butter Naan

Nawabi Chicken is a decadent Mughlai dish originating from the royal kitchens of India. This dish combines marinated chicken with spices, yogurt, cream, and almonds. 

The dish is typically cooked in a rich and creamy gravy. It is often flavored with saffron and aromatic spices. This juicy chicken nawabi curry with homemade butter naan will add a luxurious flavor to your birthday menu.

2. Rajma Chawal

Rajma chawal
Rajma chawal

Rajma chawal is also known as kidney beans and rice. This popular North Indian dish features cooked red kidney beans (rajma) simmered in a flavorful tomato-based gravy. 

Add aromatic spices like coriander, cumin, and garam masala to increase flavor. The dish is then served with chawal. 

This dish will appeal to guests of all ages at your birthday party. You can include more sides with it, like papad, fried paneer, salad, or raita. 

3. Roti With Paneer Butter Masala

Roti with paneer butter masala
Roti with paneer butter masala

Roti with paneer butter masala is a classic and delectable combination in Indian cuisine. The soft and fluffy roti, also known as chapati or Indian flatbread. It pairs perfectly with the creamy and flavorful paneer butter masala.

Paneer butter masala combines pieces of paneer cheese with a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is seasoned with aromatic spices and finished with butter and cream.

Together, roti and paneer butter masala create a satisfying and comforting meal. This combo is loved by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. You can keep it on your birthday menu. 

4. Stuffed Kulcha

Stuffed kulcha
Stuffed kulcha

Stuffed kulcha is a type of Indian bread that’s filled with tasty stuff before cooking. The filling can be anything like spiced mashed potatoes, paneer, veggies, or minced meat.

After filling, the kulcha is rolled out and cooked until it’s golden brown and delicious. The most popular kulcha versions are chole kulcha and aloo kulcha. It’s often served hot with yogurt, chutney, or pickles. 

For an Indian birthday party menu, stuffed kulcha can be a delightful and versatile addition. Guests can enjoy a variety of fillings with each bite.

5. Frankie 

Frankie
Frankie

Frankie is a popular Indian street food that comes from Mumbai. It’s essentially a wrap made with a flatbread like paratha or roti.

You’ll find tasty ingredients like spiced potatoes, onions, paneer, or chicken, all seasoned with flavorful spices and sauces.

It’s rolled up and served hot, making it perfect for eating on the go. Frankie is a big part of Mumbai’s street food scene and is loved all over India for its deliciousness and convenience.

6. Chicken Noodles

Chicken noodles
Chicken noodles

Chicken noodles for a birthday main meal are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. This dish usually includes stir-fried noodles with tender chicken, assorted veggies, and tasty soy sauce, garlic, and ginger seasonings.

It’s hearty and satisfying; you can customize it to suit different tastes. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions, for a delicious and memorable birthday feast that everyone will enjoy.

7. Fried Rice

Fried rice
Fried rice

Fried rice is an extremely popular Asian dish. This rice recipe includes stir-frying cooked rice with veggies, eggs, meats, and seafood. Add soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other spices to enhance the flavor.

Fried rice is known for its versatility and can be customized with different ingredients based on personal preferences and regional variations. It is often a main or side dish accompanying other Asian entrees.

8. Tawa Pulao

Tawa pulao
Tawa pulao

Tawa Pulao is a very famous Indian street food dish from Mumbai. It is made by stir-frying cooked rice with a mix of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, peas, and onions, along with spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.

“Tawa” refers to the flat skillet or pan on which the dish is prepared, lending a unique smoky flavor. Tawa Pulao is typically garnished with fresh cilantro and served hot as a flavorful and satisfying meal.

9. Ghee Rice With Kurma

Ghee rice with kurma
Ghee rice with kurma

Ghee rice with kurma is a classic South Indian dish. It features fragrant rice cooked in clarified butter (ghee) and served with kurma, a flavorful curry.

The grain of rice is coated with spices such as cardamom and cinnamon. You can make Korma with mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version or with proteins like chicken or lamb.

It’s cooked in a creamy sauce made with coconut milk, yogurt, or cream, along with aromatic spices. This combination offers a delicious and satisfying meal enjoyed by many.

10. Plain Rice With Rasam and Dal

Plain rice with rasam and dal
Plain rice with rasam and dal

Plain rice with rasam and dal is a simple South Indian meal. It’s made of steamed rice served with rasam, a tangy soup with tomatoes and spices.

The meal also includes dal, a lentil curry cooked with mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves. It’s a comforting and nutritious dish widely enjoyed in South India.

11. Kathi Roll

Kathi roll
Kathi roll

Kathi rolls are a famous street snack in Kolkata, India. It’s a flatbread wrapped around grilled meat, usually chicken or mutton, with onions, peppers, and sauces. 

Kathi rolls are known for their portability and delicious flavors. This makes them an appealing option for those on the go. At your birthday party, you can pair the salad,

Potato Wedges and Chutneys with it. 

Read More: Indian Wedding Veg Food Menu List

5 Veg Menu for Birthday Party at Home

Here are 5 delicious vegetable plate choices for a home birthday party.

12. Methi Chole

Methi chole
Methi chole

Methi chole is a tasty Punjabi curry. This curry bowl is made with chickpeas and fresh fenugreek leaves. It’s easy to prepare and packed with fiber and protein.

This gluten-free dish combines the earthy taste of fenugreek with hearty chickpeas. This veg bowl can offer a satisfying meal at your birthday party.

You can pair Methi chole with rice, roti, salad, raita, pickles, papad, or chutney for a complete meal.

13. Paneer Pasanda

Paneer Pasanda
Paneer Pasanda

Paneer Pasanda is literally referred to as Favorite Paneer. It is a cherished North Indian dish often found in restaurants. This is one of the incredible veg menu for birthday party at home. 

It features soft paneer slices stuffed. Additionally, it has an aromatic mixture of nuts and spices. It is then covered in batter and fried till crisp.

Next, it is served in a luscious gravy from onions, tomatoes, and cashews. This recipe has a delicious blend of textures and flavors. This makes it a favorite among paneer lovers. On your birthday, this can catch both non-vegetarian and vegetarian attention. 

14. Masala Bhatura

Masala Bhatura
Masala Bhatura

Masala Bhatura is a flavorful twist on the classic North Indian deep-fried bread, Bhatura. This is another amazing birthday party menu at home in india. 

Regular Bhatura is made with flour, salt, yogurt, and a leavening agent. On the contrary, Masala Bhatura adds spices, herbs, and sometimes mashed potatoes for extra flavor and softness. 

The dough is flattened out and fried till brown and fluffy. This offered fragrant and spicy bread. At a birthday party, you can serve it with chole, paneer butter masala, or mixed vegetable curry. 

15. Sambar Sadam

Sambar sadam
Sambar sadam

Sambar Rice/Sambar Sadam is a tasty South Indian dish. This bowl has rice, dal, sambar powder, and mixed vegetables. It’s flavorful, packed with protein, and nutritious.

You can enjoy it with fresh curd, papad, or a side vegetable dish. Adding a bit of ghee makes it even tastier. This classic Tamil Nadu one-pot meal provides a satisfying dining experience.

16. Paneer Makhani

Paneer Makhani
Paneer Makhani

One of the amazing birthday party menu Indian vegetarian ideas isPaneer Makhani. This beloved Indian dish pairs tender paneer cubes with a creamy tomato-cashew gravy. Originating from New Delhi, this comforting curry includes butter, tomatoes, and cashews. Every spoon can offer a rich and satisfying flavor.

Indians adore its plainness and deliciousness. So, this Makhani recipe has become a staple in Indian cooking. You can pair this bowl with steamed or jeera rice as the main course at your gathering. 

Starters for Birthday Party Indian

17. Dhokla

Dhokla
Dhokla

Dhokla is a savory sponge dish that comes from Gujarat, India. A batter of fermented lentils and rice makes this cheap party food.

Unlike khaman, which uses instant gram flour batter, dhokla batter is fermented. It’s known for its fluffy texture, delicious taste, and protein-rich content. People enjoy it as a snack or part of a meal, especially in Gujarat. 

To add a Gujrati flavor to your birthday gathering, serve this signature dish as a starter.

18. Khada Pav Bhaji

Khada pav bhaji
Khada pav bhaji

One of the incredible Indian birthday party food ideas is Khada Pav Bhaji. This offers a delightful twist to the classic Mumbai street food, Pav bhaji. 

With vegetables kept whole instead of mashed. This variation adds unique texture and flavor to the dish.

As a birthday meal starter, its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and comforting nature will impress guests and set a festive tone. This versatile dish can be easily customized to accommodate different dietary needs. That’s why people love it.

19. Rava Dosa with Coconut Chutney 

Rava Dosa with Coconut Chutney
Rava Dosa with Coconut Chutney

Rava dosa is a renowned South Indian dish. This crepe-like delicacy combines semolina, rice flour, all-purpose flour, and spices. Unlike traditional dosa, it doesn’t require fermentation, making it a quick breakfast or snack option.

It’s often paired with coconut chutney and sambar. It delights taste buds with its crispy texture. Despite not being fermented, Rava Dosa still offers a delightful dining experience alongside the health benefits of its nutritious ingredients.

20. Sindhi Dal Pakwan

Sindhi dal pakwan
Sindhi dal pakwan

Sindhi Dal Pakwan is a classic breakfast dish from Sindhi cuisine. It features chana dal curry paired with crispy fried flatbreads called pakwan. This dish is popular for its savory flavors and comforting appeal.

It’s often enjoyed at weddings, family gatherings, and special occasions. Sindhi Dal Pakwan is a delightful treat that satisfies hunger and cravings alike.

21. Green Peas and Paneer Mini Parathas

Green peas and paneer mini parathas
Green peas and paneer mini parathas

Green Peas and Paneer Mini parathas are smaller Indian flatbreads with delicious paneer and green peas filling. Inspired by the popular Matar Paneer dish, these parathas offer a protein-rich breakfast option. Cooked on a griddle, they’re perfect for a wholesome meal or snack.

5 Indian Snacks for Birthday Party

For the snack corner, you can organize your birthday party table with the below Indian snacks. 

22. Masala Papad

Methi chole
Methi chole

Masala papad features crispy papadums covered with a spicy and sour sauce. The topping often consists of chopped onions, fresh tomatoes, cilantro, green chilies, red chili powder, salt, lime juice, and chaat masala powder. It’s a popular Indian snack that’s easy to make and adds flavor to any gathering.

23. Bread Pakora

Bread pakora
Bread pakora

Another amazing Indian snacks for birthday party is Bread pakora. You can simply make this beloved North Indian snack. Bread slices are coated in a seasoned gram flour batter. Then, you need to fry them. This creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the bread soft inside.

It’s often served with tangy chutneys like tamarind or cilantro-lime. Though tasty, it’s considered indulgent due to its high-fat content.

24. Fried Momo

Fried momo
Fried momo

Fried momo is also called crispy momo. This is a delightful take on the traditional Tibetan dumpling. It’s made by stuffing dough with a mix of finely chopped veggies or meat seasoned with salt and pepper. 

The filled dumplings are deep-fried till golden and crispy on the outside. It’s a fusion of savory momo flavors with the crunchiness of fried snacks, popular in many Asian countries. Kids, including guests of all ages, will enjoy this snack on your birthday or any special gathering.

25. Gobi Manchurian

Gobi Manchurian
Gobi Manchurian

Adding Gobi Manchurian as a snack option for a birthday party would be a fantastic choice. This dish is a favorite among both adults and children. The crispy cauliflower and the savory and tangy sauce will surely be a hit among guests.

This Manchurian dish is made with cauliflower fried and coated in a sweet, tangy, slightly spicy sauce. You can make the sauce with chili sauce, vinegar, ginger, and garlic. 

26. Sev Puri 

Sev Puri
Sev Puri

Sev Puri is a delicious Indian street dish. This item is bursting with spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Its crispy base is called papdi. It is loaded with diced potatoes, chickpeas, onions, and chutneys.

Topped with crunchy sev noodles, it offers a satisfying crunch in every bite. Unlike pani puri, sev puri boasts a fuller experience with sweet yogurt and additional toppings like tomatoes and onions.

5 Desserts for Birthday Party

27. Badam Kheer

Badam Kheer
Badam Kheer

Badam Kheer is also known as Badam Payasam. This luscious Indian pudding combines almonds, milk, sugar, cardamoms, and saffron to create a rich, creamy dessert.

This delightful treat resembles the popular Indian beverage, badam milk. It is a traditional delicacy made of almond paste filled with cream milk. This dessert is ideal for festivities and festive occasions.

28. Orange Sandesh

Orange Sandesh
Orange Sandesh

Orange Sandesh is a tasty twist on the classic Bengali sweet Sandesh. It’s made with crumbled paneer and powdered sugar and infused with fresh orange flavor.

This delicacy is a delicious blend of sweet and sour flavors. This makes it a refreshing treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

29. Rose Barfi

Rose barfi
Rose barfi

Rose barfi is a sweet Indian treat with milk, sugar, and rose essence. It has a floral scent and taste from the rose essence. You can often top with nuts like pistachios or almonds to enhance richness. This dessert is creamy and soft, perfect for festive occasions.

30. Anjeer Halwa

Anjeer Halwa
Anjeer Halwa

Anjeer Halwa is also known as Fig Halwa. This is a delectable Indian dessert made primarily from dried figs (anjeer), milk, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter).

It’s a rich, creamy, sweet dish with a delightful texture and hint of aromatic spices like cardamom. Anjeer Halwa is often prepared on special occasions and festivals. So, as your birthday dessert, this nutritious and tasty halwa will be an amazing addition to your menu.

31. Jalebi

Jalebi
Jalebi

Jalebi is a famous sweet snack throughout South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Mauritius. Deep-frying maida flour batter into circular or pretzel forms creates this dish.

Then they’re steeped in sugar syrup. Jalebi is often eaten with a curd or rabri in North India. Sometimes, it may be flavored with kewra for scent.

5 Drinks for Birthday Party

32. Flavored Milkshakes

Flavored Milkshakes
Flavored Milkshakes

Flavored milkshakes are tasty drinks made by mixing milk with different flavors and sweeteners. Add fruits, syrups, chocolate, or nuts to create unique tastes.

These shakes often include ice cream or ice to make them creamy and frothy. People love flavored milkshakes because they’re refreshing. You can customize them however you like to satisfy your cravings. That’s why they will be a great birthday drink.

33. Rose Milk

Rose milk
Rose milk

Rose milk is a delightful summer drink. It combines milk, rose syrup, and sabja seeds. The flavor is sweet and flowery, and the texture is creamy.

It’s a perfect drink for staying cool on hot days. Enjoy it at birthday parties or any festive gathering as a delightful and easy-to-make beverage option.

34. Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Strawberry Banana Smoothie

A strawberry banana smoothie is a blended drink with ripe strawberries, bananas, and other ingredients like yogurt or milk. It is recognized for its sweet taste and smooth texture. You can include it as a refreshing beverage. Add ingredients like honey for extra sweetness to enhance a strawberry banana smoothie.

35. Fruit Juice

Fruit juice
Fruit juice

Treat your birthday guests to various fruit juices packed with delicious flavors and natural goodness. There’s something for everyone, from traditional apple and orange to exciting mixes like mango-pineapple or strawberry-banana. Serve them cold in fancy glasses for a refreshing and healthy birthday bash.

36. Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate
Hot chocolate

Hot chocolate is a cozy drink. This glass is prepared by mixing cocoa or chocolate with warm milk or water. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfect for warming up on chilly days. Optional toppings include marshmallows, whipped cream, and cinnamon for added flavor.

Read More: Iconic Food of North India You Need to Try

Popular Kids Birthday Food Party Ideas Indian – A Sample Menu

Kids will love birthday party Indian food ideas for their birthday parties.Below is a kid’s party ideas food sample menu. This may be useful for your next party.

AppetizersMain Course   SidesDessertsBeverages
Mini Vegetable SamosasButter Chicken with Naan         Vegetable PulaoMango Lassi PopsiclesThandai
Paneer Tikka SkewersVeggie Pizza or Pav Bhaji Cucumber RaitaJalebi with Vanilla Ice Cream      Fresh Fruit Juice
Masala Corn ChaatVeggie Noodles or PastaGarlic BreadFruit Salad with Honey-LemonRose Milk

FAQs

What Are Five Finger Foods for Birthday Party?

5 finger foods for a birthday party could include:
1. Mini sliders or cheeseburger sliders
2. Chicken tenders or nuggets
3. Veggie sticks with dip or hummus
4. Mini pizzas or pizza rolls
5. Spring rolls or samosas

What Fruit is Good for Kids Party?

For kids’ parties, choose fruits like bananas, strawberries, and apples, which are sweet and easy to eat. Colorful vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, and peppers are also great choices. Stick to familiar and straightforward options that kids enjoy and find appealing.

How Much Snacks for a Party?

For a party, you need to aim for 4-6 types of appetizers. You can estimate 5-6 pieces per person per hour, totaling around 20-30 pieces per person for a 4-5 hour event. However, you can adjust quantities based on guest preferences and the duration of the party.

Final Verdict

Planning a birthday party menu can be fun and easy with Birthday Party Food Ideas Indian.

There’s something for everyone, including savory starters, delicious sweets, and refreshing drinks. The above-mentioned 36 items will assist in making a versatile menu for your birthday occasion. 

By including popular Indian dishes and snacks, you can make your celebration memorable. With some creativity, you can host a budget-friendly yet delicious birthday bash that your guests will love.

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